A look at what's going on in Trinidad, on H Street, and in the larger area north of Capitol Hill.

Thursday, February 09, 2017

More Details on Mysterious Queen Street Death, Nerds in NoMa, & Valentine's Day at Fare Well

More details have emerged surrounding the mysterious death of 66 year old Awlachew Ayele, whose body was discovered after a fire at his apartment in the 1100 block of Queen Street Jan. 26. Fox 5 has been covering the story, and has created a timeline of events that is absolutely horrifying. Apparently in the 24 hours leading up to the discovery of his body Ayele had reported to police that drug dealers had taken over his apartment (reportedly after kicking down the door). Hours later emergency personnel responded to a call for an assault at the apartment. Early the next morning firefighters arrived after someone reported the smell of smoke at the apartment, extinguished the fire, and discovered Ayele's body under debris.

According to the article police arrested a man named Gary Martin, who also goes by Garrett Taylor, for the assault. Fox 5 also has a video of the inside of the apartment in which you can see the words "You Going DOWN" and Ayele's last name written on the wall.

In non-crime news, Nerds in NoMa presents a panel discussion on D.C. Visual Arts. The panelists will focus on why it's important for the District to have an arts identity, and how to keep artists in the city amidst rising rents. It's free to attend, and it's happening Feb. 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (discussion starts at 6:30 p.m.) at 1200 First St. NE.

Fare Well (406 H St.) is among the local spots with special Valentine's Day offerings. In addition to their local menu, you'll be able to order the following à la carte items for two:

roasted beet & fennel salad

Italian wedding soup

spaghetti with marinara & house-made meatballs

chocolate budino with fresh berries & toasted hazelnuts

Fare Well will also have have some Valentine's treats available until the 14th, or until the last batches run out.